"Endangered Species" is an album by the American rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd. Released on August 9, 1994, it showcases the band's versatility by featuring acoustic versions of their popular Southern rock hits, intertwined with blues and country elements. The album significantly differs from their classic style, marking a notable musical departure for the band.
It includes many of Lynyrd Skynyrd's biggest songs, such as "Sweet Home Alabama" and "Saturday Night Special," but performed in a way that highlights their musical roots and underlines each member's individual skills. The album is unique in Lynyrd Skynyrd's discography, as it presents the band stripped of their typical electrified Southern rock sound. Even with this departure, the album was well-received and added a new dimension to the band’s rich musical history.
The line-up for the album consisted of several original and longtime members of Lynyrd Skynyrd, including Gary Rossington, Johnny Van Zant, Ed King, Leon Wilkeson, Billy Powell, and Randall Hall, with additional musicians playing various traditional and folk instruments.
"Endangered Species" serves as a testament to the band's musical prowess and versatility, offering a fresh take on their fan-favorite hits. Despite not being a commercial success compared to their other works, the album holds a special place in the band's discography as it revealed a different, softer side of Lynyrd Skynyrd.
